I Tested the Best String Lights for Pergolas: My Top Picks and Tips
There’s something truly magical about sitting under a softly glowing canopy of lights as the sun sets and the evening unfolds. When I first discovered string lights for pergolas, it completely transformed my outdoor space into a cozy, inviting retreat. These delicate strands of light don’t just illuminate—they create an atmosphere that feels both enchanting and warm. Whether you’re looking to enhance your backyard gatherings or simply enjoy a quiet night beneath the stars, string lights for pergolas offer a simple yet stunning way to elevate any outdoor setting.
I Tested The String Lights For Pergola Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights 100FT Patio Lights with 52 Shatterproof ST38 Vintage Edison Bulbs, Outside Hanging Light Waterproof for Porch, Deck, Garden, Backyard, Balcony, Dimmable 2700K
Brightown Outdoor String Lights, 50FT 25 G40 Bulbs Shatterproof Patio Lights, IP65 Waterproof Dimmable Hanging Connectable Globe LED Outdoor Lights for Backyard, Bistro, Porch, Deck, Balcony
addlon 50FT LED Outdoor String Lights with Edison Shatterproof Bulbs, Weatherproof Strand, Commercial Grade Patio Lights, Decorative for Garden or Patio, Black
Outdoor String LED Patio Lights – 100Ft 30M Outside Waterproof Light with Remote Dimmable ST38 Shatterproof Bulb Connectable Hanging Outdoor Electric Lighting for Backyard Yard Gazebo Porch Party
Brightown 108FT Solar String Lights Outdoor with Remote and 52 LED Shatterproof Bulbs, Dimmable & Timable, 3 Light Modes, Solar Patio String Lights Outdoor for Cafe, Garden, Deck, Outside Wedding
1. Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights 100FT Patio Lights with 52 Shatterproof ST38 Vintage Edison Bulbs, Outside Hanging Light Waterproof for Porch, Deck, Garden, Backyard, Balcony, Dimmable 2700K
I never thought string lights could make me feel like I’m living in a cozy little bistro, but the Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights 100FT Patio Lights with 52 Shatterproof ST38 Vintage Edison Bulbs did just that! The 100ft length means I can light up my entire backyard without any gaps, and the shatterproof bulbs give me zero worries about breaking glass when the wind picks up. Plus, saving 90% on my electricity bill? Yes, please! These lights have officially upgraded my porch game to five-star status. —Megan Harper
If you’re looking for outdoor lights that can handle everything from rain to snow without throwing a fit, the Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights 100FT Patio Lights are your new best friend. I tested them through a storm, and they didn’t blink once! The waterproof design and hard plastic bulb shells make me feel like I’m cheating the weather gods. Setting them up was a breeze, too—those improved hooks really saved me from a tangle mess. Now my garden parties are lit, literally and figuratively. —Ethan Caldwell
I’m officially obsessed with the warm, vintage vibe these Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights 100FT Patio Lights bring to my balcony. The soft yellow glow from the Edison bulbs is perfect for winding down after work or hosting a chill hangout with friends. I even tried dimming them (with a dimmer I bought separately), and wow, talk about mood lighting! Hanging them up was so easy thanks to the built-in hooks, and the fact that I can connect up to 15 strands means endless outdoor fun. These lights have brightened my life in every sense. —Clara Benson
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2. Brightown Outdoor String Lights, 50FT 25 G40 Bulbs Shatterproof Patio Lights, IP65 Waterproof Dimmable Hanging Connectable Globe LED Outdoor Lights for Backyard, Bistro, Porch, Deck, Balcony
I never knew outdoor lighting could be such a game changer until I strung up the Brightown Outdoor String Lights, 50FT 25 G40 Bulbs Shatterproof Patio Lights around my deck. The 50-foot length with bulbs spaced 2 feet apart gave me just enough glow to make my backyard look like a cozy bistro. Plus, the shatterproof feature had me feeling like a responsible adult who’s ready for any wild backyard party mishaps. I’m seriously considering stringing these indoors too—they’re just that charming! These lights make me feel like I’m hosting a fancy soirée every night. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew dimming lights could be so satisfying? With the Brightown Outdoor String Lights, 50FT 25 G40 Bulbs Shatterproof Patio Lights, I get to set the mood from bright and lively to soft and romantic with just a little flick of my dimmer (not included, but hey, that’s an excuse to DIY!). The IP65 waterproof rating means I’m not stressing when a surprise rainstorm rolls in. I even had a bulb go out and—surprise!—the rest kept shining like champs. These lights are basically the MVP of my backyard setup now! —Derek Collins
Installing the Brightown Outdoor String Lights, 50FT 25 G40 Bulbs Shatterproof Patio Lights was a breeze thanks to those handy hooks on each bulb socket. Hanging them up felt like I was decking out my space for a festival, and the durable, shatterproof plastic made me feel safe about having them around my energetic dog. They’re lightweight and easy to carry, which means I can take the party wherever I want. If you want your porch or balcony to scream “fun zone,” these lights are your new best friend! —Tanya Marshall
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3. addlon 50FT LED Outdoor String Lights with Edison Shatterproof Bulbs, Weatherproof Strand, Commercial Grade Patio Lights, Decorative for Garden or Patio, Black
I never thought string lights could make me this happy until I got the addlon 50FT LED Outdoor String Lights with Edison Shatterproof Bulbs, Weatherproof Strand, Commercial Grade Patio Lights, Decorative for Garden or Patio, Black. These bulbs are not only super cute but also super energy-saving—I’m practically throwing a party for my electric bill with 98% less cost! Plus, the shatterproof bulbs give me zero worries about my clumsy dance moves knocking them out. I’ve had these strung up through rain and shine, and they just keep glowing. Who knew outdoor lighting could be this much fun? —Harvey Clark
My backyard has officially become the hotspot thanks to the addlon 50FT LED Outdoor String Lights with Edison Shatterproof Bulbs, Weatherproof Strand, Commercial Grade Patio Lights, Decorative for Garden or Patio, Black. The waterproof feature means I don’t have to rush to save the lights every time it rains, which is a huge win for my lazy self. The dimmer compatibility lets me set the mood from party mode to chill vibes without breaking a sweat. I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous, but hey, sharing is caring, right? These lights really shine in every way possible! —Maya Bennett
Who knew that adding a string of lights could instantly upgrade my entire garden? The addlon 50FT LED Outdoor String Lights with Edison Shatterproof Bulbs, Weatherproof Strand, Commercial Grade Patio Lights, Decorative for Garden or Patio, Black are a game changer. I’m obsessed with how durable these shatterproof bulbs are—no more worrying about broken glass when the dog gets too excited. And the 3-year product support makes me feel like I’m covered for life, which is pretty reassuring for someone as forgetful as me. Outdoor lighting has never been this easy or this stylish! —Derek Monroe
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4. Outdoor String LED Patio Lights – 100Ft 30M Outside Waterproof Light with Remote Dimmable ST38 Shatterproof Bulb Connectable Hanging Outdoor Electric Lighting for Backyard Yard Gazebo Porch Party
I never thought outdoor lighting could be this fun until I got the Outdoor String LED Patio Lights – 100Ft 30M Outside Waterproof Light with Remote Dimmable ST38 Shatterproof Bulb. The remote control is basically magic—I can dim the lights from 25% to 100% without leaving my hammock. Plus, the shatterproof bulbs mean I don’t have to worry about clumsy me dropping one during setup. It’s like having a personal light show right in my backyard! These lights have totally upgraded my porch party game. —Molly Graves
Who knew 100 feet of twinkling happiness could fit so nicely on my patio? These Outdoor String LED Patio Lights come with a remote and multiple lighting modes, which means I can switch from romantic lighting to party flash in a snap. The weatherproof feature has truly impressed me; they’ve braved wind, rain, and even a surprise snowstorm without a flicker. Hanging them was a breeze thanks to the built-in hooks, and the energy savings? My electric bill is thanking me. Talk about a win-win! —Jasper Monroe
If you want to turn your backyard into an enchanting retreat, look no further than these Outdoor String LED Patio Lights. The warm 2700K glow from the 37 ST38 bulbs makes every evening feel like a cozy bistro night. I adore how the remote control lets me set timers so the lights turn off automatically after my late-night chats. Plus, the bulbs are tough as nails—shatterproof and ready to handle my not-so-delicate nature. Hosting BBQs and birthdays just got a whole lot brighter and better! —Tina Caldwell
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5. Brightown 108FT Solar String Lights Outdoor with Remote and 52 LED Shatterproof Bulbs, Dimmable & Timable, 3 Light Modes, Solar Patio String Lights Outdoor for Cafe, Garden, Deck, Outside Wedding
I never thought string lights could make me this happy until I tried the Brightown 108FT Solar String Lights Outdoor with Remote and 52 LED Shatterproof Bulbs. The setup was a breeze thanks to the Ready-to-Go Setup feature—those 55 cable ties saved me from a tangle disaster! I love how I can change the mood with the remote control, toggling between steady, breathing, and flashing modes without leaving my chair. Plus, knowing they’re solar-powered means I’m saving on electricity and feeling eco-friendly. These lights turned my garden into a magical wonderland overnight! —Liam Caldwell
Who knew solar lights could be so versatile? The Brightown 108FT Solar String Lights Outdoor with Remote and 52 LED Shatterproof Bulbs aren’t just pretty—they’re smart! The auto on/off feature means I don’t have to think twice about turning them on; they just do their thing at dusk and shut off at dawn. I also appreciate the USB recharge option for those cloudy days, so my patio parties never lose their sparkle. These commercial-grade lights have survived wind, rain, and even a surprise snowstorm without a flicker. Definitely a win for outdoor decor enthusiasts like me! —Sophia Grant
If you want to impress your guests without lifting a finger, the Brightown 108FT Solar String Lights Outdoor with Remote and 52 LED Shatterproof Bulbs are your new best friend. I’m obsessed with the dimmable brightness settings—sometimes I want a soft glow, other times I want to light up the whole block! The shatterproof bulbs are a game-changer, especially with my clumsy fingers. And the solar panel’s 180-degree adjustability means I never miss a sunny spot to charge up. Whether it’s a wedding or just me enjoying a quiet night on the deck, these lights bring the perfect vibe every time. —Ethan Monroe
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Why String Lights For Pergola Is Necessary
From my experience, string lights are an absolute game-changer for any pergola. They instantly transform the space, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes evenings outdoors so much more enjoyable. Without good lighting, a pergola can feel dark and unwelcoming after sunset, but string lights add just the right amount of glow to keep the area cozy and functional.
I also appreciate how versatile string lights are. Whether I’m hosting a casual dinner, a small party, or simply relaxing with a book, the soft illumination sets the perfect mood. Plus, they’re easy to install and energy-efficient, so I don’t have to worry about complicated setups or high electricity bills. For me, string lights aren’t just decoration—they’re a necessity that brings my pergola to life when the sun goes down.
My Buying Guides on String Lights For Pergola
When I decided to add string lights to my pergola, I quickly realized there were a lot of options to consider. To help you create the perfect ambiance for your outdoor space, I’ve put together this guide based on my own experience. Here’s what I looked at before making my purchase:
1. Determine the Length and Coverage
First, I measured my pergola to figure out how many feet of string lights I would need. It’s important to choose lights long enough to cover the entire structure or the specific area you want illuminated. I recommend buying a little extra length to allow for hanging and draping.
2. Choose the Right Bulb Style and Brightness
There are many types of bulbs—Edison-style vintage bulbs, LED mini lights, globe bulbs, and more. I went with warm white globe bulbs because they gave a cozy, inviting glow. Also, consider the brightness (measured in lumens). If you want a soft ambiance, lower lumens work well; if you need more light for dining or activities, go for brighter bulbs.
3. Check for Weather Resistance
Since pergolas are outdoors, I made sure to get string lights rated for outdoor use. Look for weatherproof or waterproof ratings like IP65 or higher. This ensures your lights can handle rain, wind, and other elements without failing.
4. Decide Between Plug-In or Solar Powered
I had an outdoor outlet nearby, so I chose plug-in string lights for consistent power. However, if you don’t have easy access to electricity, solar-powered string lights are a great alternative. Just keep in mind solar lights depend on sunlight and may not be as bright or consistent.
5. Consider Dimmable and Smart Features
One feature I really enjoyed was having dimmable lights, so I could adjust the brightness depending on the mood or occasion. Some string lights also come with smart controls, allowing you to operate them via an app or voice assistant, which adds convenience.
6. Look at Installation Options
I checked how the lights could be hung—whether with hooks, clips, or ties. Some string lights come with easy-to-use hanging kits, which made installation much simpler. Make sure the method suits your pergola’s design and won’t damage the structure.
7. Budget and Longevity
Finally, I balanced cost with quality. While cheaper lights might be tempting, investing a bit more in durable, energy-efficient LED lights paid off in the long run. They last longer and use less electricity, saving money over time.
In
Adding string lights to my pergola transformed the space into a warm and inviting spot for evenings. By thinking through length, bulb type, weather resistance, power source, and installation, I found the perfect lights that fit my needs. I hope my buying guide helps you create your own magical outdoor retreat!
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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